You know what I notice first about a person besides the emotion they hold in their eyes?  Well, their laugh and their smile.  But I do also look to the mop on top to assess the health of individuals I meet.  Beautiful, strong, lustrous, shiny, bouncy, and thick hair says to me much about a person’s vitality and the level of their self care.

Many of us, including myself, willingly abuse our locks with dye and other chemicals in the name of beauty, and then try to undo the damage using even more toxic substances like artificial pomades, conditioners, and processed oils.  And with the summer season finally upon us, it’s prime time to replenish our strands and prepare them for the long hot days ahead; days filled with excessive heat, light, humidity and water (both chlorinated and salt!).  While maintaining proper hydration and following a well balanced, plant heavy diet can do wonders on its own, there are a few foods that are particularly fab when it comes to keeping your hair from looking drab.  So in addition to munching on more orange fruits and veggies (beta carotene = vitamin A = cellular love), and plenty of leafy greens like spinach, there are a few other bites that you can, and should, try to make part of your daily diet:

1. Nuts

Grow your hair, and prevent its loss! Nuts are a great source of protein, zinc, and Omega-3 fatty acids, all of which promote healthy hair growth.  Brazil Nuts are extra special, as they are high in selenium, a mineral which is linked to scalp health, helps resist infection and the causes of dandruff, while also preventing hair loss.  Need more reason to eat nuts?  I didn’t think so, but check out these 5 benefits of eating nuts anyhow! Nuts make a great snack or addition to salads, desserts, and entrees. So, grab a handful or make some nut butter!